Nylander Committed to Maple Leafs, Makar’s Performance Shines

Toronto Maple Leafs winger William Nylander has affirmed his commitment to the team, contingent on a continued pursuit of contention, while Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar continues to dominate on the ice. These developments come as the Maple Leafs navigate organizational changes and the Avalanche solidify their position in the Central Division.

Nylander’s Future with the Maple Leafs

William Nylander, currently under contract through the 2031-32 season, has expressed his desire to remain with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but with a key condition: the organization must remain dedicated to competing for a Stanley Cup. According to reports from The Athletic, Nylander is open to a “retool” of the team, but a full rebuild would prompt a reevaluation of his future.

“Unless it was a full rebuild and we were going to get rid of everybody, then it’s a different story,” Nylander stated. “Then you take that conversation then. But just to do a retool or whatever, I mean, I still want to be here, yeah.”

This stance comes as the Maple Leafs are undergoing changes, including a shift in their general manager role. Nylander’s commitment provides a foundation for the team as they aim to correct course for the upcoming season.

Cale Makar’s Dominant Performance

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar was recognized as one of the NHL’s “Three Stars” for the week ending December 22, 2024. NHL.com reports that Makar led the league with 2-6—8 points in four games, propelling the Avalanche into third place in the Central Division.

Makar’s performance included:

• Assisting on Colorado’s lone goal in a 3-1 loss to the Vancouver Canucks on December 16.
• Registering two points in a 4-2 comeback victory over the San Jose Sharks on December 19.
• Notching 1-1—2, including his 23rd career game-winning goal, in a 4-2 win against the Anaheim Ducks on December 20.
• Contributing 1-2—3 in a 5-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken on December 22.

The 26-year-old Makar currently leads NHL defensemen in goals (tied for 11th), assists (34), points (45), power-play goals (6), power-play points (19), and game-winning goals (tied for 3rd) through 36 games in the 2024-25 season. He is a former James Norris Memorial Trophy winner and a finalist for the award in the past four seasons.

Other Notable Achievements

Alongside Makar and Nylander, Montreal Canadiens right wing Patrik Laine was also named an NHL “Three Star” for the same week. Nylander scored in all three of his contests, producing 5-2—7 to guide the Maple Leafs to a pair of wins, including a 5-3 victory over the Dallas Stars on December 18 and a 6-3 triumph against the Buffalo Sabres on December 20. Pro Hockey News provides further details on these accomplishments.